Historical Background

In Māori mythology, Whiro (God of Evil) is the eldest son of Rangi-nui and Papa-tū-ā-nuku. He is the embodiment of sickness, disease, darkness, death, and evil in the world. Whiro also ruled over thieves. He mixes things up, talks in riddles, and is deceitful. Whiro is often depicted in Māori art as a lizard.